This year marks Barbie’s 60th anniversary, and with over 200 careers and counting, there isn’t a plastic ceiling she hasn’t broken. On Friday, July 5, in London, Ontario, a Barbie Astronaut Doll surpassed those ceilings to reach new heights.

Held in partnership with Canadian not-for-profit STEM Camp, campers experienced space-related programming and counted down Barbie’s launch to space on a high-altitude weather balloon. Her three-hour journey to space and back was captured on live action camera. STEM is all about science, exploration and discovery. Mattel was excited to send Barbie to space, so kids could learn the science and technology behind making this magic happen. For the first time, Barbie went to space and Mattel hopes this inspires a new generation of girls who will pursue STEM careers.

In addition, young girls were given the opportunity to hear directly from a successful female role model, Aerospace Engineer, Natalie Panek, who offered her insight into a career in aerospace engineering and how she continues to pursue her dream of exploring space. Natalie is a rocket scientist, explorer and champion for women in STEM. Natalie’s dreams began at a young age with Barbie by her side to spark her imagination.

About STEM CampSTEM Camp is a Canadian registered not-for-profit organization with a mandate to offer quality STEM-based programming through educational activities. STEM Camp was founded in 2013 with two locations and has grown to 48 locations confirmed for 2019. STEM Camp offers specialized summer camps designed to inspire children between the ages 5-13 through hands-on and inquiry-based activities in the STEM fields.